Giant Ginkgo

The GIS maps trace the copper production through about 70 rooms, alleyways, and courtyards—an indication that the production of metal objects at Khirbat Hamra Ifdan was a highly specialized process performed by skilled crafts people, said Levy.

Adams said the evidence of mass production at Khirbat Hamra Ifdan and other evidence pointing to innovations in mining, smelting, and fuel production "indicate that Early Bronze Age elites were able to muster, organize, and control a very large and technically skilled work force."

Analysis of the copper objects made at the ancient factory suggests that there was "perfect quality control" at the factory, according to Hauptmann. "It is amazing to see the different steps that were needed to produce such a high-quality copper," he said.